Cal Fire Cuts Official 2026 State Christmas Tree
The 65-foot white fir was harvested in Shasta County for the California State Capitol.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Government
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Should the state government continue the tradition of harvesting and displaying large trees at the Capitol?
Cal Fire workers have harvested the official 2026 California state Christmas tree from the LaTour Demonstration State Forest in Shasta County. The 65-foot white fir is bound for Sacramento to be placed on the west lawn of Capitol Park.
Why it matters
The selection process ensures the state tree meets strict aesthetic standards, including a full crown and sufficient height. The tradition highlights the state's forest management resources and collaborative efforts between Cal Fire and the Department of General Services.
The tree is adorned with 10,000 LED lights and nearly 200 handcrafted ornaments made by individuals with developmental disabilities. This harvest continues a 17-year tradition of sourcing trees from state-managed forests.
The players
Cal Fire
The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection is responsible for fire prevention and resource management across the state.
Department of General Services
This state agency serves as the business manager for the State of California, overseeing infrastructure and maintenance for public buildings.
The details
Department of General Services crew members select the tree from a group of candidates identified and mapped by Cal Fire staff throughout the year. The final selection must meet aesthetic criteria, including a full crown and the absence of structural gaps.
Timeline
The official tree was cut on Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2026.
The tree is scheduled to arrive at the Capitol on Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2026.
Political Context
Opponents often criticize the use of state resources for seasonal decor, arguing that focus should remain strictly on immediate fire prevention and forest health budgets. These critics push for lower costs regarding the transportation and maintenance of large-scale public displays.
Residents visiting the State Capitol in Sacramento will be able to view the tree once it is installed on the west lawn of Capitol Park. The event serves as a public centerpiece for the holiday season at the state's seat of government.
The takeaway
The state's annual tree tradition underscores a long-standing collaboration between forestry and building management departments. Citizens planning to visit the Capitol should look for the 65-foot tree on the west lawn once installation is complete.
Further reading
Learn more about state operations and public initiatives on the California Government page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KRCR.
Live Poll
Should the state government continue the tradition of harvesting and displaying large trees at the Capitol?
